THE BARONS OF TANG – INTO THE MOUTHS OF HUNGRY GIANTS

Beating and ferocious, this album is the ultimate mixed bag. Hardcore-tinted vocals messily mashed together with elements of folk, rock, jazz and gypsy traits, it’s an album that is jarring at first listen.

Get past that initial reaction because the structure of Into the Mouths of Hungry Giants is absolute genius. Layer upon layer of instrument, vocals and other unworldly sounds take the listener on a ride through starkly contrasting settings.

The Case of The Missing Moustache is a Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery; St Yared’s Nightmare is a trepid chase set to the sound of jungle-like drums; and closing track The Dogs of Rotterdam provide rough vocal harmonies and charging guitars.

Not everyone will take to this, and more fool them. (CD)

***1/2